Thomas Michael Werthman, passed away peacefully shortly after midnight on January 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Aster Assisted Living of Marshfield, where he was cared for by a compassionate and deeply appreciated staff. He was also cared for by Compassus Hospice in his final days.
Tom was born on August 9, 1930, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Lois (Deyoe) Werthman Barnes and Louis Werthman. He grew up alongside his brothers, Robert, James, and step-brother, Ronald Barnes. He was a proud graduate of the class of ‘49 from Omro High School, conveniently located across the street from his home, where the first bell of the day doubled as his alarm clock.
A proud United States Army veteran, Tom served his country during the Korean War from 1952–1953. He remained deeply proud of his service throughout his life and was rarely seen without his Korea Veteran hat, which he wore daily for many years.
Upon returning home, Tom met the love of his life, Anita LeFevre. He often fondly retold the story of meeting her at Berry Lake, where he was instantly smitten after seeing her in a red swimsuit in the middle seat of a row boat, while Tom and his friends were swimming by. The two were married on June 23, 1956, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned decades. Together they raised two children, Michael and Patricia.
Tom was always a hard worker, from childhood jobs found, picking vegetables, farming, newspaper deliveries, and anything to help support his mom and family. He moved to Milwaukee to seek employment and accepted a position as an elevator operator for a furniture chain in the city. After 25 years, he moved up to be in charge of all aspects of the operation, managing the 5 locations in the greater Milwaukee area.
In 1974, Tom chose to start his own business with his wife Anita and 2 children, moving their family to Marshfield, Wisconsin, where they opened Mall Furniture. Tom worked endlessly to operate this family-owned business that remains proudly in operation today. Though Anita initially felt the weight of leaving her hometown, the family soon discovered a warm and welcoming community and Marshfield became the place they were proud to call home.
When Tom was not working, he enjoyed competitive sports, from coaching kids basketball and football, being a Wisconsin athletic WIAA official to following professional teams’ sports. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, and Milwaukee Bucks. He also loved horse racing and gambling at local casinos with Anita, friends, and cousin Chuck Thomas Tanner who’d take him along even when he was needing a wheelchair and assistance getting around. Tom was a true gambler and could bet on anything, and win at most everything.
Tom and Anita enjoyed traveling each year to Las Vegas, creating a treasured tradition of taking each grandchild on their 21st birthday. Casinos with cards and crap tables, live entertainment and going to the track and bet on the horse races were his choice for fun. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing. Tom introduced anyone who was willing to go trout fishing or card games, cribbage, hearts, bridge and/or sheepshead.
He also loved classic western movies and firmly believed that the good guys always wore white hats.
Quiet and reserved by nature, Tom was always happy to share stories of the past with those who took the time to listen. He treated everyone with equal respect and kindness, leaving a lasting impression through his steady presence and gentle character.
Tom is survived by his wife, Anita of nearly 70 years; his sister-in-law, Lynn Ann Davis; children, Michael & Patricia and their spouses. Extremely special nieces, Diane,Karla, and Teri (Barnes) and James Barnes. Cherished 8 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and expecting one more this spring. Many other nieces; nephews; cousins; along with many friends. Tom was a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather, as he just loved kids. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren include: Thomas (and child Owen), Amy (and child Nathan), Tracy (and child Arlo), Angela (husband Nathan; children Conner, Drew, and Ethan), and Andrew (wife Ashley; child Wesley), children of Michael Werthman and his wife Linda, and Kristen (husband Jeffery; child Eloise & soon to be baby brother), Michael (wife Margaret; children Lainey and Layton), and Jacob, youngest grandson of Pat and her husband Mark Radtke.
A visitation will be held from 4:00–6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, and 10:00 a.m. until the service at 11:00 a.m. on January 24th, all at Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home, 1010 E. Veterans Parkway, Marshfield. A funeral service will be held at Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m., with Deacon Ray Draeger officiating, followed by a luncheon. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Tom’s honor may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or Wisconsin Honor Flight.
